External Frequently Asked Questions
Find out our answers to some frequently asked questions.
Q. I’ve never thought about working in care, is it something I could do?
A. All you need to ask yourself is - are you interested in working with people and are you a caring and compassionate person.
People join the sector from many different backgrounds; straight from education with classroom tuition but no practical skills; those looking for a second job or career change, people returning to work and/or looking to work around family or other commitments.
It helps if you have any previous experience of caring for adults or children, but this is definitely not essential. A positive attitude and an aspiration to do well are the most important things
Q. Can I work flexible hours?
A. There will be different shift patterns available depending on the role and the organisation you work for, and most providers will be willing to discuss your individual circumstances. There are also opportunities to work part time or at weekends if that suits you better.
Q. What is a care provider?
A. In Northumberland, as elsewhere, most care services for adults are delivered by independent companies. We have more than 50 different organisations providing care across the county, which is one of the reasons there are so many different options for you to choose from.
Q. I want a career not just a job. Is this a role I can progress in?
A. Yes – there are lots of ways to develop! This could be specialising in a specific area such as dementia, or becoming a senior care worker, team leader or manager, moving into health and training as a nurse, paramedic or occupational therapist.
Q. I’ve been out of work for a while, does this matter?
A. No – what you need to be able to show is your commitment to care – it’s about who you are as a person and your values. The induction will cover everything you need to know.
As long as you care about others, you’ll be given the support and training to confidently support people in their own homes.
Working in social care is an opportunity to get back into work with excellent training and support to deliver high levels of care.
Q. I am not sure about the personal care
A. Supporting people in the community involves a range of services and may include personal care. Some of the best carers thought they couldn’t do it at first. With the right training and support they now can – confidently and with dignity.
Q. What happens after I’ve registered my interest?
A. The first thing we will do is have an informal chat with you to learn a bit more about the sort of role you are looking for and tell you about the vacancies available in the area you would like to work.
The next step will be to put you in touch with care providers who have vacancies that suit your requirements.
Q. I can’t drive, can I still apply?
A. Depending on the role you are applying for you may need to be able to drive. This could be necessary, for instance, if your work is in a very rural area.
However, there may be opportunities to car share, and sometimes work which is based in a more urban area can be done on foot or via public transport. There are even opportunities to work in a residential setting, where you will be based at one location.
Q. What if I don’t have any experience?
A. You’ll receive all the training you need to provide the very best care. You’ll have a comprehensive induction working through key skills. On successful completion, you’ll receive the Care Certificate which is recognised across the sector.
Q. What age do you need to be to work in care?
A. All ages work in care, training and support will be tailored to your individual circumstances.
Q. Does it matter where I live?
A. No. Many people who work in care work within five miles of their homes but that is by preference not a requirement. We have vacancies now in all areas of Northumberland, so if you can commute to one of those areas, even if you live outside Northumberland, you are eligible.
Q. Do I have to be fully vaccinated?
A. We would encourage you to have your vaccinations to protect yourself and the people you care for, but it is not a legal requirement.
Q. What is the recruitment time frame?
A. There are vacancies all the year round. DBS checks can take time, but the employers will let you know the outcome of your application as quickly as they can.